2014-15 Théâtre français Season at the NAC

“The most essential element of theatre is transformation”

 

 

Ottawa, 15 April 2014 – Theatre lovers were invited to a celebration today at the NAC Studio, where Brigitte Haentjens unveiled the program for her third season as artistic director of the Théâtre français at the National Arts Centre. Accompanied onstage by Mélanie Dumont, associate artistic director, Youth programming, and the actors Sylvie Drapeau and Francis Ducharme, Brigitte Haentjens enthusiastically presented the 18 shows that comprise the 2014-15 season. They include new works, European productions and Canadian co-productions.

 

 

Quoting Heiner Müller’s phrase that “The most essential element of theatre is transformation,” the 2014-2015 season is characterized by metamorphosis. It is highly diverse in terms of the art forms presented onstage and also as regards incursions into national and international repertoires and the intriguing worlds of contemporary artists. The season will be one that theatre aficionados won’t want to miss, and a perfect introduction to the form for neophytes.

 

“I like to see in a theatre season mature artists with extensive experience, as well as young artists who have been given a chance to express themselves,” notes Brigitte Haentjens. “Some have never stepped on an NAC stage, and I’m pleased to introduce them to our audience.”

 

Two Major Works directed by Brigitte Haentjens

The artistic director invites spectators to plunge into two important plays she is directing: Molly Bloom (based on the James Joyce novel Ulysses) with Anne-Marie Cadieux, and Shakespeare’s Richard III with Sébastien Ricard in the title role. The translation of both texts is by her artistic accomplice Jean Marc Dalpé.

 

Two Contemporary Masterpieces by Major Artists

Théâtre français is also presenting two internationally renowned works: Kiss & Cry by choreographer Michèle Anne De Mey and filmmaker Jaco Van Dormael (Le huitième jour, Toto le héros), and Les aiguilles et l’opium, a seminal work by Robert Lepage. Kiss & Cry is a polymorphous show for dance, cinema and little fingers that has charmed and surprised spectators in Europe and North America. As for Les aiguilles et l’opium, much acclaimed by critics, it is coming back to the NAC in a new version starring Marc Labrèche, 24 years after its première with Robert Lepage at the Théâtre français, when he was its artistic director.

 

Théâtre français, A Creative Partner

For Brigitte Haentjens it is extremely important that the Théâtre français play a leading role in creating and presenting new works. Much more than a presenter, the TF offers artistic, financial and staffing support to several companies creating new works, and often acts as a springboard in helping them present their plays in other countries. The Théâtre français is pleased to contribute to the production of Phèdre, the Long voyage de Pierre-Guy B. and Richard III, as well as the S’appartenir (e) and Ce qui nous relie? events.
 

Children’s Program… For one and all

The 2014-2015 youth program is festive in nature, a feast for the senses that is open to audiences of all ages, from toddlers 6 months old (who will love Eaux) to children of 5, 7 and 9, not to mention the mothers, grandfathers and friends who accompany them.

 

“I am offering spectators young and old an opportunity to reconnect with live theatre, which is being wonderfully transformed by young artists,” says Mélanie Dumont. “Our program features performers from various backgrounds, from a bassist and a pianist playing John Cage to a madcap master of ceremonies, a dancer and all sorts of others. Like a chameleon, theatre adapts and changes its colours for your enjoyment!”

 

De plain-pied – Teenagers take over the TF!

For an entire weekend in spring 2015, the Théâtre français will serve as base camp for adolescents aged 14 to 20. They will be invited to take over the stage, to paint the walls with their presence, to participate in shows and activities. Centred on the two artistic proposals Album de finissants and Ce qui nous relie? (second version), the weekend is an opportunity for young people to express themselves, their concerns and their ideas, both offstage and on. An effervescent, dynamic forum that is an impetus for vibrant theatre.

 

Subscribing is child’s play!

By subscribing to a Théâtre français season, spectators can save up to 30% on regular ticket prices. Not only can you select your seats and obtain information on the many activities organized by the Théâtre français, but you won’t miss out on extraordinary performances. And you can save an additional 5% by subscribing before May 23, 2014. Take advantage of this great offer!

 

To subscribe:

613 947-7000, ext. 620

1 866 850-ARTS, ext. 620

cna-nac.ca/abonnement

in person: Box office in the NAC Foyer